A couple of months ago a broadsheet newspaper (pleased to say it wasn't the Guardian) ran a lengthy photo feature showcasing the best of British comedy. What was odd about the piece (at least to anyone who watches comedy on a regular basis), was that there wasn't a single female face in the lineup. It's not a sign of tokenism or positive discrimination to insist that women are just as capable of producing first-rate comedy as guys, it's an easily observable fact: the UK circuit is packed with great female comics producing highly diverse work. Think Josie Long, think Laura Solon, think Sarah Millican; whether your taste in comedy runs to avant garde whimsy or gladiatorial sexual politics, you're as likely to find the best stuff coming from women as you are from men. Nevertheless, while misconceptions still exist there's every reason to support events like the Funny Women Awards, set up to support and recognise the talents of new female comics. Last year's winner was Canadian Katherine Ryan while previous winners include the brilliantly acerbic (and Edinburgh Comedy Award-nominated) Zoe Lyons. Your host on the night is impressionist and comic Jan Ravens.